Lee Min Ho welcome hits fever pitch at Big Dome

By Miguel Dumaual, ABS-CBNnews.com

MANILA, Philippines -- Over 10,000 Filipino fans of Korean superstar Lee Min Ho trooped to the Smart Araneta Coliseum on Friday night for his first meet-and-greet event in the country.

The Big Dome was packed with screaming fans of the "Boys Over Flowers" star, who was tapped by local clothing line Bench as one of its international endorsers. The lifestyle brand organized Lee's first "Fun Meet" with his fans at the famous Quezon City venue.

Korean superstar interacts with over 10,000 of his Filipino fans during a "Fun Meet" held Friday night at the Smart Araneta Coliseum. Photo courtesy of Ginger Conejero, ABS-CBN News

As early as 8:00 a.m., a number of Lee's adoring fans were already seen lining up at the Smart Araneta Coliseum. They had to wait over 12 hours to finally see their idol in person.

At the "Fun Meet" itself, K-pop -- a music genre originating from South Korea -- was celebrated, with hits from popular acts such as Wonder Girls and Super Junior playing as the fans eagerly waited for Lee's appearance.

Even the ubiquitous "Gangnam Style" was played to the delight of the Filipino audience.

When Lee finally came out on stage to screams from the 10,000 fans at the Big Dome, the Korean heartthrob gamely participated in games that called for the audience's participation.

A contest for Lee's male followers who emulate his style was held, as well as a game for the "City Hunter" star's female fans.

Lee, who is the third Korean endorser of Bench after Si Won and Dong Hae of Super Junior, will continue his stay in the country over the weekend for other engagements as the brand's endorser. -- Report from Ginger Conejero, ABS-CBN News